A timer was used to determine how fast a 16.9oz bottle of water could be emptied using three methods.
We built a small fire the first night just to have some fire time.
A simple empty method was used, a vortex method and a straw method.
Ung the different method displacement took place in 4.5 seconds, 3.1 seconds and 2.8 seconds. The scouts learned that by adding a constant flow of air to aid in the displacement the bootle could be empitied twise as fast.
Using Super Absorbent Polymers (SAP) the Scouts learned about how molecules can bond together to create Material that can absorb 200X its volume. In additon, the impurities in the water (food coloring) allowed the scouts to see how small impurites will stay with the water even though it is absorbed by other material.
Using baking soda (Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3)) and vinegar (acetic acid (CH3COOH)) to create gas (Carbon Dioxide (CO2)) and see the expansion of gas.
Not the reaction of the two chemicals in the in the bottle of the Scout on the fartherest right. Also, Remember to wear saftey glasses when performing an experiment.
The Scouts learned to use a "Fresnel" lens to see how focused sunlight would affect different objects.
A Fresnel lens is a type of composite compact lens developed by the French physicist Augustin-Jean Fresnel (1788–1827) for use in lighthouses.
We explored the science of focused air and air pressure. How to multiply it and how to direct it. We started small.....
Needless to say the "mini air cannons were immediately turned on each other. That is why we started small...
Of course we didn't stay small. we upgraded from a plastic cup to a plastic trash can!
And then of course we set up a shooting gallery that had multiple distance levels. The Scouts managed to knock over cups at 30ft!
After finishing air cannons we did electrical experiments on lemons to produce electricity.
Sadley, some lemons had to give their lives for the cause of science....
Even with a busy day of training future scientist we had time for scout skills...
Older Scouts teach younger Scouts how to lash....
Fun was had no matter what we were doing!
As with all our campouts fun, food, fires, and folklore were part of the experience....
STEM Campout at Camp Strake September 2022
Thrustworthy - Loyal - Brave - Friendly - Courteous - Kind - Obident - Cheerfull - Thrifty - Brave - Clean - Reverant